Health Encyclopedia

Cluster Headache

Definition

Cluster headache is a type of severe, recurring pain that is located on one side of the head. It received its name from the clustering, or pattern, of frequent headaches that usually occur.

There are two main types of cluster headaches:

Episodic cluster headaches—These occur one or more times daily for multiple weeks. The headaches then go away and come back months or years later.

Chronic cluster headaches—These occur almost daily with headache-free periods lasting less than one month.

Either type of headache may switch to the other type.

Causes

The cause of cluster headaches is not known. It is thought that there is abnormal activation of the area of the brain that is responsible for regulating temperature, blood pressure, hormone release, and sleep. The pain is thought to be caused by a combination of widening of the blood vessels and inflammation of the nerves of the face.

Find out what your headache triggers are and take steps to avoid them.

Medication

Medications used to treat migraines often relieve sudden attacks of cluster headaches. These drugs must be taken at the first sign of a headache. Other medications may also be prescribed.

In some cases, the headache does not last long enough for medications to be helpful. Sometimes, the medications just delay an attack, rather than stop an attack.

Painkillers, especially opioids, may not be effective during an acute attack.

Other medications may be given to prevent or reduce the frequency of headaches.

Oxygen Therapy

Breathing 100% oxygen for 10-15 minutes often relieves cluster headache pain. This is often viewed as the front-line therapy for cluster headache. The oxygen appears to decrease blood flow to the affected area of the brain. People under age 50 who have episodic cluster headaches seem to benefit most from oxygen therapy.

Oxygen therapy can be expensive. There are also risks with this therapy.

Surgery

As a last resort, some doctors may recommend cutting or destroying a facial nerve to eliminate pain.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.